Dewey 'Pigmeat' Markham

Dewey 'Pigmeat' Markham

Deceased · Born: Apr 18, 1904 · Died: Dec 13, 1981

Personal Details

BornApr 18, 1904 Durham, North Carolina, USA
Spouse
  • Bernice Penn

    ( Dec 31, 1969 to Dec 13, 1981 )
  • Marita L. Greene

    ( Apr 18, 1933 to Dec 31, 1969 )
  • Cecilia

    ( Dec 31, 1969 to Apr 28, 1931 )
Parents
  • Margaret Mitchell
  • Adolpus D. Markham

Biography

Dewey "Pigmeat" Markham, a highly acclaimed African American performer, left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry, showcasing his impressive range of talents as a comedian, singer, dancer, and actor.

His iconic nickname, "Pigmeat", stemmed from a memorable stage routine where he confidently declared himself to be "Sweet Poppa Pigmeat", a moment that has become an integral part of his enduring legacy.

Furthermore, Markham's versatility was also reflected in his occasional film credits, which sometimes listed him as Pigmeat "Alamo" Markham, a testament to his adaptability and ability to excel in a wide variety of roles.

Throughout his illustrious career, Dewey "Pigmeat" Markham continued to captivate audiences with his unique blend of humor, charisma, and talent, solidifying his status as a beloved and respected figure in the entertainment industry.

Markham's enduring legacy transcends his multifaceted array of exceptional abilities, as he is also universally acknowledged for his seminal 1968 release "Here Comes the Judge", a pioneering recording that is frequently regarded as the inaugural hip hop record.

This revolutionary track not only demonstrated Markham's mastery of music but also his remarkable capacity to intuitively tap into the cultural pulse of his time, thereby solidifying his status as a true trailblazer in the evolution of this genre.

His groundbreaking work on "Here Comes the Judge" not only exemplified Markham's impressive musical talents but also his uncanny ability to anticipate and respond to the cultural and social currents of his era, thus cementing his position as a visionary and a true pioneer in the development of hip hop music.

This landmark recording has had a lasting impact on the music industry, serving as a catalyst for the growth and diversification of hip hop as a genre, and continues to inspire and influence new generations of artists and music lovers alike.

Markham's legacy serves as a testament to the power of artistic innovation and the importance of embracing and celebrating the cultural and social diversity that defines our world.

Career

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1969
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1968
Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In
Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In as Regular Performer
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1947
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1944
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2020
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1949